The Trump administration is advancing plans for nearly $6 billion in new weapons sales to Israel, a move seen as a strong affirmation of the U.S.-Israel alliance at a critical time. The proposed package comes as Israel continues operations to dismantle Hamas’s leadership and infrastructure following years of rocket attacks and terror campaigns.
The sales include $3.8 billion for 30 AH-64 Apache helicopters—nearly doubling Israel’s current fleet—and $1.9 billion for 3,250 infantry assault vehicles to strengthen the Israel Defense Forces’ ground capabilities. Deliveries would likely take two to three years and be financed through U.S. foreign military funding, which supports Israel’s qualitative military edge in the region.
At this stage, the State Department is seeking approval from the top Republican and Democratic leaders of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a routine step before notifying the full Congress.
The proposal was first submitted last month, prior to Israel’s September 9 strike on Hamas leaders in Qatar. Israel said the strike targeted a command hub responsible for planning cross-border attacks. The operation sparked criticism from some regional governments, but U.S. officials have maintained that Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorist threats wherever they originate.
President Trump hosted Qatar’s prime minister shortly after the strike to reinforce ties with the Gulf ally, while also backing Israel’s security concerns. Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Israel and Qatar, emphasizing America’s commitment to both partners. In a joint appearance, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s resolve to protect its citizens, a position Rubio did not dispute.
The Trump administration has consistently supported Israel’s efforts to neutralize Hamas, which launched the October 7, 2023, massacre that killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel and led to the abduction of 251 hostages. Israel’s military campaign has aimed to eliminate Hamas’s ability to launch future attacks and free the remaining hostages.
Humanitarian challenges in Gaza remain serious, but U.S. and Israeli officials stress that Hamas bears responsibility for placing military assets in civilian areas and prolonging the conflict.
The proposed arms package is seen by analysts as a clear message that Washington intends to ensure Israel’s security for the long term. “This says all systems go,” said Seth Binder, an expert on U.S. foreign weapons sales.
Trump has accelerated arms transfers to Israel since taking office, including releasing shipments of precision bombs that had been delayed under the previous administration. Supporters say the weapons are essential to helping Israel defend itself in one of the world’s most dangerous neighborhoods.